Loren D. "Larry" Ybanez

Loren D. "Larry" Ybanez 11/25/31 - 4/25/13 Hero: One who, in the face of danger and adversity displays courage and the will for self sacrifice. Our Hero... Peacefully passed away at age 81 on the 25th of April, 2013 in Bakersfield, CA at home surrounded by his loved ones. He proudly served with the U.S. Army as an Airborne Ranger (Special Forces) with the 82nd Airborne Division & 101st "Screaming Eagles" conducting numerous combat jumps while spearheading assault operations in Korea. Larry achieved 2 Purple Hearts, 2 Bronze Stars of Valor & 1 Silver Star, yet he possessed a rare humility deeming none of his acts of Gallantry and Valor worthy of an audience. Graciously, he always insisted the honor truly belonged to his fallen brothers. He was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans with over 30 yrs of service, VFW Post 97, the National Order of Trench Rats, American Legion Post 682, Purple Heart Organization, Airborne Rangers & the Merchant Marines. Larry was preceded in death by his wife, best friend & true love Dolores along with his daughter Marilyn. He is survived by his children Mike, Lawrence, Craig, Cora "Cory" & Nicole "Bambi" along with numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren & great great grandchildren. Celebration of Life service will be on Thursday, May 2nd at 9 a.m., officiated by Pastor Nolberto Gomez at Victory Outreach Church 220 Eureka Ave. Bakersfield, CA with interment immediately following by Rev. Nick Cazares at Greenlawn Cemetery 3700 River Blvd. Bakersfield, CA. "Tata", as he was known by his family, always seized the opportunity to instruct & inspire all those lucky enough to spend time with the "Grouch". He was a leader in every aspect of the word and devoted himself to being the example that ultimately influenced the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. "Listen to this old man, I'm telling you the truth..." - One tough S.O.B. www.bakersfield.com/obits